Wilbert Scott Durham

Beloved Educator, Coach, Family Man, and Community Leader

1962–2025

A Life Dedicated to Sports, Education, and Youth Empowerment

Born and raised in Passaic, NJ to the late Annie Mae Rozier and Wilbert Durham, Scott graduated from Passaic High School, Class of 1981. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Delaware State University, followed by a master’s degree in education from Cambridge College. Never one to stop learning, Scott later obtained a Sports Industry Essentials Certificate from Columbia University in 2018, a testament to his lifelong passion for growth and excellence.

Scott’s career was defined by service, leadership, and transformation. He gained invaluable experience in a variety of school communities, including Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI) and Central High School. In 2012, he was appointed Supervisor of Athletics at John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson, NJ—a role that showcased not only his professional acumen but also the immense respect he had earned throughout his career.

Known affectionately by many as “Coach Scottie D,” Scott left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and athletes. A former football star himself at Passaic High School, he returned to his beloved sports of football and track and field at Central High School. While there he rebuilt and diversified the team, earning him the 1997 Star-Ledger Boys Track Coach of the Year Award for his outstanding leadership.

Following this feat, in 2016, he received the Athletic Director of the Year Award. A crowning achievement, as he was the first African American residing in New Jersey to receive such an outstanding honor. Soon after, Scott Durham was bestowed with the John F. Kennedy Athletic Director Award by his JFK Girls Soccer Program in 2017.

As Athletic Director at JFK High School, Scott provided visionary leadership to numerous championship teams and was a constant pillar of encouragement for both students and staff. His legacy is one of unwavering dedication, mentorship, and the profound belief in the potential of every young person who crossed his path.

A Legacy That Reaches Beyond the Field

Coach Scottie D was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., embodying the fraternity’s cardinal principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift in every aspect of his life. His influence reached far beyond the classroom and the field—he was a mentor, a leader, and a pillar in every community he touched.

Active in the lives of both his students and loved ones, Scott was always generous with his time, wisdom, and heart. Whether guiding a young athlete, supporting a colleague, or showing up for his family, he led with purpose and compassion. Coach Scottie D leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, leadership, and unwavering commitment.

Lasting Love and Family

Scott’s greatest legacy lives in the love he shared with his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean Smith-Durham, and his beloved daughter, Quanisha Allen, both of whom loved him deeply. He was a proud grandfather to Aziyyah Waring and Zyon Raymond Scott Rivera and remained a close friend to Barbara Allen, the mother of his daughter.

Scott is lovingly remembered by his sister, Kimberly Rozier, and his brother, Sterling Rozier. He was a cherished uncle to his nieces Myjia Durham, Chyenne Williams, Antonia Harris, Brea Harris, Shardae Rozier, Aja Rozier, and Crystal Smith, and to his nephews Myjohn Durham, Hassan Rozier, and Clarence Terry.

His love and influence extended far beyond immediate family, embracing a wide circle of relatives, including many more nieces, nephews, and cousins. Scott is remembered by countless beloved friends and colleagues, all of whom were touched by his kindness, strength, and strong support.

Scott was preceded in death by his dear mother, Annie Mae Rozier, his father, Wilbert Durham, and his sister, Michelle Durham. The everlasting warmth of his family will never fade, truly showing his impactful life and place within the hearts of his loved ones.

Please click the link below for Livestream:

https://www.mbcnewarknj.org/watch